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Pittsburgh Steelers Mock Draft: Bye Week Edition

By Logan Bryson

Nov 28, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) throws the ball under pressure from Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) in the third quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) throws the ball under pressure from Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Carl Lawson (55) in the third quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports /
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Round 1: OLB Carl Lawson, Auburn

John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
John Reed-USA TODAY Sports /

I decided to go EDGE rusher here with the Steeler’s first rounder, considering that Pittsburgh’s lack of a defensive pass rush may be their biggest weakness. Carl Lawson is a unique physical talent and would probably step right in as the Steeler’s best EDGE rusher. While injuries have plagued Lawson for his entire career, he is finally putting it together in his Junior season. Lawson has managed to collect 7.5 sacks in the Tiger’s first 8 games of the season.

Possible Options: The other two players I considered using Pittsburgh’s first round pick on were Iowa CB Desmond King and Alabama TE O.J. Howard.

Desmond King would fill the obvious need of additional secondary help, while providing ball skills and physicality that are much needed in the Steelers defensive backfield.

O.J. Howard certainly would have been a luxury pick, with greater needs on the defensive side of the field. However, it is scary to envision his potential role in the Steelers prolific offense.

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